By Chloe Schneider
We, like many Australians, were curled up in front of the TV last night with girlfriends, champagne and a whole lot of ooing and ahhing as we watched the royal wedding unfold.
Here are all the details on the gowns, the beauty and the jewels…
The Bride’s Dress
When Kate Middleton then stepped out in a stunning wedding gown by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, thousands of fashionistas were probably cashing in on bets. The instantly iconic dress had long Chantilly lace sleeves and a subtle V-neckline was a very obvious nod to Grace Kelly’s wedding gown. An opening flower inspired the silk gazar skirt and the Bridesmaid was in for quite a task ensuring the nine-foot long train was controlled.
Kate looked absolutely stunning, albeit a little careful. It was, afterall, a royal occasion so we’ll forgive Burton and Middleton for playing it safe.
The Bridesmaid
Kate’s sister Pippa Middleton’s gown was met with overwhelmingly positive feedback. There have even been mutterings that she showed up the Bride!
Also designed by Sarah Burton for McQueen, the ivory satin-based gown looked absolutely stunning on the beautiful bridesmaid. It was the details, like the pretty cowl neckline, that really had our jaws dropping. The form-fitting column number had button detailing and lace trims that matched the brides dress.
Pippa’s hair was in a similar half-up do to her sisters and her make-up simple. We thought she od’d on the tan a little but, all in all, the bridesmaids look was one of the best we’ve ever seen.
The Beauty
We were shocked and excited to discover that Kate Middleton did her own make-up on the big day. Word is the bride has had a series of private lessons with London makeup artist Arabella Preston to prepare. Pre-wedding, planner Mark Niemierko told PEOPLE, “I heard Arabella Preston was called in by a mutual friend of her and Kate’s. She’s had about three or four lessons with Kate at her private flat in Chelsea and has also gone, very privately, to Clarence House. Arabella was supposed to be coming on the day as well but now she isn’t, because Kate’s comfortable and confident in doing it herself.”
And it was a job well done, she looked absolutely radiant, channeling the perfect English Rose look.
The Hair
The royal locks were coiffed by a stylist from Richard Ward Salon and Metrospa, James Pryce. James has been the 29-year-old’s hair dresser for the past eight years. The simple curls were very Kate — understated and pretty in a half-up, half-down coif. Her gorgeous chocolate locks were in thick ringlets, a final touch that made the look more chic than casual.
The Jewels
As we are all aware, Prince William gave his fiancé the 18 carat oval blue sapphire and diamond ring that his mother Princess Diana chose for her engagement to Prince Charles.
Last night we watched with bated breath as Prince William fit the wedding band, a welsh gold piece created by Wartski from a piece of the precious metal that was given to Prince William by Queen Elizabeth shortly after his engagement.
Prince William has decided against a wedding ring for himself.
The Queen, completing the ‘something borrowed’ portion of Kate’s ensemble, lent that stunning tiara to the bride for the regal occasion. King George VI purchased the Cartier piece just three weeks before he took the throne for the Queen Mother. It was then passed down to Queen Elizabeth on her 18th birthday. Dubbed the ‘Halo’ tiara, the piece looked stunning with the Rpbin Pelham design diamond drops. Inspired by the Middleton coat of arms, the gorgeous earrings were a gift from her parents.
The Boys
Prince William wore the uniform of Colonel of the Irish Guards for his big day. Featuring a scarlet jacket, gold and crimson sash, gold sword slings and a forage cap, he will look every bit the perfect prince. The Irish Guards position is William’s highest military title so he will be wearing this striking uniform along with the Garter Sash with the Wings of the Royal Air Force, the Garter Start and the Golden Jubilee Medal.
His best man and brother had the uniform of Captain of the Household Cavalry on while Price Charles wore the Ceremonial Royal Navy Number One Dress.